One of the most efficient in the olden times was said to have been anointing the backbone with the grease of bats, moles, dormice, and such animals; it was also said that puppies were dwarfed by frequently washing the feet and backbone, as the consequent drying and hardening of the parts were alleged to hinder their extension.

To-day the growth of boys intended to be jockeys is kept down by excessive sweating.
Ancient Popularity of Dwarfs .-- At one time a dwarf was a necessary appendage of every noble family.

The Roman Emperors all had their dwarfs.

Julia, the niece of Augustus, had a couple of dwarfs, Conopas and Andromeda, each of whom was 2 feet 4 inches in height.

It was the fashion at one time to have dwarfs noted for their wit and wisdom.
Philos of Cos, tutor of Ptolemy Philadelphus, was a dwarf, as were Carachus, the friend of Saladin; Alypius of Alexandria, who was only 2 feet high; Lucinus Calvus, who was only 3 feet high, and aesop, the famous Greek fabulist.